A temple of a thousand sculptures adorns one of the oldest cities in India (Photo)

The temple, which consists of thousands of striking figures of gods and heroes, is located in the heart of the Indian city of Madurai. It is called Meenakshi and is dedicated to Parvati and her consort Shiva. It is in this place that the locals spend all the holidays.

The size of the temple complex is amazing. It is crowned with 14 towers up to 50 m high. The tallest of them was built in 1559, and the oldest in 1216. Their walls are decorated with thousands of stone sculptures — animals, gods and demons of the Hindu tradition. This is the sacred meaning of the entire ritual structure, writes Bigpicture.

The figures that adorn the temple are symbols of abundance, greatness and generosity. They have been carved out of stone and hand-painted over the centuries.

Inside the temple is no less picturesque. It is decorated with numerous statues and carved pillars. There is also a patio with a swimming pool, where you can relax if you wish.

Recently it was reported about the largest abandoned train station in the world. Michigan Central Station was designed by Warren & Wetmore and Reed & Stem, who also designed New York City Central Station. Michigan Central Station ceased operations in 1988, but it was open to visitors for much of the 1990s. After large-scale acts of vandalism, the station was closed and is now under protection.